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Entrepreneurs To Vie for $20K in New RES California Business Plan Competition

ICTMN Staff

5/7/13

Entrepreneurs will pitch their businesses and compete to win $20,000 by presenting their business plans to a panel of judges at the Reservation Economic Summit (RES) to be held at Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, California, June 17-19.

This unprecedented “Twenty Grand Business Plan Competition” will feature both “start up” and “established” Native American businesses that are owned by an enrolled member of any state or federally recognized tribal nation, Alaska Native or a Canadian First Nation.

The panel of judges will consist of respected and accomplished entrepreneurs and business leaders who will weigh several criteria, including: business structure, financial viability, personal abilities, business experience, and the quality of the plan. The deadline for participants to complete the submission process is 6 p.m. Pacific Time on Friday, May 31.

Chukchansi, Inc. is sponsoring the Twenty Grand Business Plan Competition, and will also present a three-part Tribal leadership seminar. Chukchansi, Inc. was formed in 2009 to create profits for and diversify the economic holdings of the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians. The company is focused on acquiring and leading profitable and sustainable business ventures.

The National Center for American Indian Economic Development encourages Native entrepreneurs to attend RES California to gain access to resources to help grow their small businesses and expand their network by interacting with respected tribal leaders, state and local officials, and top CEOs.

“Attending events like RES California helps small businesses make connections and opportunities that are imperative for small businesses to flourish,” said Derrick Watchman, NCAIED Chairman and CEO of Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprises.

The RES event, themed “Sustaining Economic Momentum,” will also provide teaming opportunities; business, enterprise and leadership development sessions; a business trade show, and an American Indian artisan market. RES California activities will kick-off with the “National Center Golf Classic” at the beautiful Journey at Pechanga Golf Resort on June 17.